FY27: Paraeducator Level I, Special Education, 7hrs/10mos, Westland MS (Ad closes 8/17/26)

About the Role

At the direction of the principal, this paraeducator performs a variety of tasks that promote student learning and well-being to support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEP). The work focuses on facilitating student mastery of grade-level curriculum or mastery of Alternate Academic Achievement Standards. Students supported are typically in general education classes throughout the school day and may be pulled out for individualized or small group instruction.

This position provides instructional and classroom management support, as well as related clerical tasks to assist teachers and other professional staff in all types of classrooms or learning environments. Paraeducators in this role support special education services including Twice Exceptional, Learning & Academic Disabilities, and Resource Services (HSM, HBS, LAD/RES).

All new paraeducators are hired at a grade 13 and may promote to a grade 14 after successfully completing a six-month probationary period and required training hours.

Responsibilities

• Support student mastery of grade-level curriculum or Alternate Academic Achievement Standards.
• Provide individualized or small group instruction as needed.
• Assist with instructional programs and monitor student behavior.
• Perform clerical tasks to support teachers and professional staff.
• Continue planned instructional activities during a teacher's temporary absence.
• Accommodate flexible scheduling, change of location, or program as needed.

Physical Demands

• Frequent bending, walking, and lifting of objects/equipment up to 50 pounds may be required.
• Outside duty may be required.

Requirements

• Knowledge of child development, instructional strategies, and MCPS instructional goals and policies.
• Ability to assist with implementation of instructional programs and monitor student behavior.
• Patience and effectiveness in working with children, young adults, and staff.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and perform required tasks.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to interact with and support students with special needs.
• Knowledge of standard computer hardware and software (e.g., Google Workspace, MS Office, web-based instructional tools).
• Ability to learn and meet the seven core competencies of the Supporting Services Professional Growth System (SSPGS).

Qualifications

One of the following combinations of education and experience is required:

• Option 1: Associate’s degree (required), Bachelor’s degree (preferred). College coursework must include at least nine credit-hours in education-related fields such as behavior management or instructional strategies. One year of experience working with students in structured educational settings is preferred. If no related coursework, two to four years of experience working with children/adolescents in structured settings (e.g., daycare, preschool) is required.
• Option 2: At least 48 college credits and two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool, after-school program).
• Option 3: Two years of experience in a structured setting (e.g., daycare, preschool) and successful completion of the ParaPro Assessment with a qualifying score of 455 or higher.
• Option 4: Any combination of applicable education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, abilities, and skills.

No certificate or license is required.

Pay

The wage range for this position is $24.38 to $36.67 per hour, based on years of service.

Schedule

• Part-time
• 10 working months per year
• Day shift